Welcome Christmas with the Birth of a New Self

Moreover, this year the COVID-19 pandemic has begun to subside. The Catholic priest of the Bandung Diocese, Father Stefanus Setyo Kriswandono, said that this year's Christmas preparations in churches have begun to increase.

"The previous year there was the influence of the pandemic. This year, maybe we have started to improve ourselves. However, we still have to take care of our health because now the news is that COVID-19 cases are starting to rise again," said Stefanus.

He added that the theme of this year's special Christmas celebration from the Indonesian Bishops' Conference (KWI) and the Fellowship of Indonesian Churches (PGI) is Glory to God and peace on earth.

"The meaning of the Christmas celebration is not just a celebration, but also that we truly glorify God for sending his son into this world, namely Jesus Christ," he explained.

Meanwhile, the meaning of peace on earth is peace for others, other creatures, and the environment. It's not just about love for others, but also for the nature around where we live.

"The meaning of Christmas for me is the meaning of joy and full of peace. Not only for family but also we share peace with other people. Regardless of ethnicity, religion, race. Because we are all noble creations, it is fitting that we also love each other," he said.

For him, Christmas is also the moment of Jesus' birth, so Christians must also have a new birth.

"It means leaving behind our old, bad qualities by becoming a new person who is much better and more loving," he said.

He also explained that during the Christmas celebration, several churches will provide online services for congregation members who are unable to come, such as the elderly or those who are sick.

"However, it is best to try to come to church directly so we can celebrate Christmas together," said Stefanus.

He hopes that at Christmas this year all religious communities will continue to look after each other. Moreover, the city of Bandung is known as a city of tolerance which even has several tolerance villages.

"Tolerance must still be maintained properly.
It is extraordinary that there is a village of tolerance, this is the main thing for communication and dialogue. We understand each other. There is nothing we are afraid of because of differences. "That is something we will continue to maintain together," he hoped.

"For those who celebrate Christmas, have a merry Christmas. Always maintain peace for others and the universe," he added. (din)**

Head of the Bandung City Communication and Information Office

Yayan A. Brilyana